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Seasons greetings, Bermuda.

We read in John 13:34 "A new command I give you: Love one another."

During this Holiday season, we are reminded of our connections: to family and friends; to those near to us and those far away from us; to those who have left us and those yet to come; and to those of all faiths and religions.

We are reminded that we are all neighbours in the same boat. That we will sink or swim together. That we are neighbours, not just at Christmas, but all through the year.

We are reminded by the words of Jesus, whose birth we celebrate during this season.

We remember, in particular, three who have left us this year: the Honourable Nelson Bascome; Rev Wilbur Lowe; Mr. Julian Hall; and Senator Albert Jackson. Our wishes and prayers are with their families who will experience this first Christmas without them.

Indeed, we offer our wishes to all those who, this year, will experience this Christmas as their first without a loved one.

We have had our joys. We remember our wonderful celebration of the 400th anniversary of settlement in Bermuda. We remember the high from the royal visit, as part of that celebration.

This year has been difficult for many of us. The reality of a few of our sons hurting and killing one another makes us sad and yes, maybe angry and ashamed. We are reminded, however, at this season, that they are our neighbours. They deserve our love, as members of the community.

We are also reminded, however, that each and every one of us has a responsibility to our neighbours to do whatever we can to stop the violence and keep the peace.

Let us remind ourselves that this is a season for peace and love. This Christmas, let us focus on the ties that bind. Let us remind ourselves that we are one country. Let us remember to reach out to our neighbours and help those who are less fortunate.

Bermuda is well equipped to be a model society. We can show the world what can be achieved by unity in adversity.

May our 2010 be more unified and harmonious as we devote ourselves to the success of Bermuda and her people.

On behalf of the Government of Bermuda, Wanda and I wish everyone peace, prosperity, and love.

To one and all, a very merry Christmas and a safe, healthy and joyous New Year.[[In-content Ad]]

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